The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear often at events, however, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."
